Maryland Insurance Administration Invokes Emergency Powers to Ensure Medical Access After May 14 Flooding

On May 20, 2025, the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA), under Commissioner Marie Grant, invoked emergency powers to support residents of Garrett and Allegany Counties devastated by historic flooding on May 14, 2025. The measures, prompted by a State of Emergency declared by Governor Wes Moore on May 15, aim to ensure access to critical healthcare needs, including prescription medications and medical equipment, in the wake of severe flood damage in Western Maryland.

The flooding, triggered by heavy rainfall with up to 5 inches per hour in Allegany County, led to significant disruptions, including the evacuation of 200 students and staff from Westernport Elementary School by boat and the closure of all Allegany County Public Schools on May 14. The MIA directed health insurers to suspend time restrictions on prescription medication refills and the replacement of medical equipment, glasses, and dentures for affected residents. Additionally, all insurers operating in Maryland were instructed to halt cancellations of auto, home, commercial, life, and health insurance policies in the impacted counties to prevent further hardship during recovery.

Governor Moore’s State of Emergency declaration, announced during a visit to Allegany County, underscored the need for a coordinated response to the crisis, which saw the North Branch Potomac River rise 20 feet in 18 hours. The MIA’s actions align with this effort, providing immediate relief by ensuring policyholders can access essential healthcare without bureaucratic delays. The agency has also set up a virtual disaster center via Zoom, starting May 20, to assist residents with insurance-related questions, and encourages those affected to contact them at 1-800-492-6116 or through an online complaint portal.

The emergency measures have been praised on platforms like X, with users commending Governor Moore and the MIA for prioritizing residents’ needs in Republican-leaning counties, reflecting a commitment to equitable disaster response. One post noted, “This is what a decent & honorable Governor does. He helps people in a red county whether they voted for him or not.” However, the scale of the flooding, which claimed at least one life in Virginia and left communities grappling with infrastructure damage, highlights ongoing challenges in Maryland’s disaster recovery efforts.

The MIA’s emergency powers, authorized under Maryland’s Public Safety Article, are a critical step in addressing the immediate healthcare needs of flood victims. As recovery continues, the agency’s focus on maintaining insurance coverage and facilitating access to medical resources will play a vital role in supporting Western Maryland’s resilience. Residents are urged to stay off roads due to ongoing hazardous conditions and to monitor updates from the National Weather Service, as more rain could exacerbate flooding risks.